Cathy Dunn

Cathy Reed Dunn, aged 77, passed away at her home in Broken Arrow, OK on October 2, 2024, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Just like the rest of her life, her cancer journey was marked with cheerfulness, determination, and an abiding faith in Jesus Christ.

Born on December 15, 1946, Cathy was the only child of Neil and Bonnie Reed. She grew up in North Little Rock, graduating from NLRHS in 1964, where she was involved in drill team and Y-Teens. She earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Central Arkansas, where she was a member of Delta Zeta sorority, serving as chapter president. In later years, she would go on to earn a bachelor's degree in education and a master's degree in gifted education, both from Arkansas Tech University. Cathy's impactful teaching career spanned 25 years - first at A.R. Hederick Elementary in Booneville, AR, then at Mingo Valley Christian in Tulsa, OK. An inspiring and creative teacher who always made students feel seen and loved, Cathy leaves behind generations of students who considered her their favorite teacher. They are better students, better writers, and better people for having sat under her instruction. And you can be sure no one left her class without knowing the parts of speech!

Cathy lived a life of service with commitment, energy, and kindness; there are countless people who will feel the impact of her loss. Her whole life was devoted to serving others as a Sunday School teacher, Bible study leader, Mend Medical Services volunteer, and so much more. She was a mentor to scores of women who benefited from her wise and gentle counsel. Over the years, she prayed with and encouraged dozens of "pink sisters" in their fight with breast cancer.

Cathy's greatest earthly joy was her family. She was devoted to her best friend and husband, Don-she was home when she was with him. As a mother, she was unfailingly tender, wise, and strong, and her children Shannon and Reed believe without question she was the sweetest mother anyone ever had. The last 27 years brought her sweetest season-"Mimi" to her seven grandchildren, who were the delight of her life. Cathy's favorite place was Lake City, Colorado, where she and her family vacationed most years since the 1980s and celebrated both her 25th and 50th anniversaries.

The most important thing about Cathy is that Jesus Christ was her truest friend and the center of her life. She lived a life deeply committed to prayer and the study of God's Word. If you read this and you knew her, rest assured you were probably prayed for by her. She would want you to know that no matter the circumstance, joy and hope can be found because of Jesus's saving work on the cross, and His glorious resurrection.

Cathy is survived by her husband of 54 years, Don Dunn, her daughter Shannon Dunn Lowe and son Reed Dunn. Cathy was also especially loved by her daughter-in-law Lee Ann Dunn, her son-in-law Mac Lowe, and her brother- and sister-in-law Jim and Suzie Dunn and their children. The absolute apples of her eye were her seven grandchildren Fletcher, Carson, Preston, and Miriam Lowe, and Jennalee, Adeline, and Tiki Dunn.

A celebration of Cathy's life will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 1 pm at Tulsa Bible Church, with a live stream available at https://www.youtube.com/@tulsabiblechurch .

A graveside service will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Booneville, AR on Monday, October 7, at 2 pm, followed immediately by a reception at First Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to Mend Medical Services (mendmedical.org/give -please choose Tribute Information).

Our family is so grateful for Cathy's life, and we're grateful to all of you who loved her along with us. Your care for us has meant the world.